InterNACHI Inspector Safety & Safe Practices

Question 1

What is the recommended placement ratio for an extension ladder against a wall?

Accepted Answer

1 foot out for every 4 feet of height

Answer

The 4:1 rule says to set the base 1 foot out from the wall for every 4 feet of working height. This gives a safe angle of about 75 degrees.

Question 2

How far should an extension ladder extend above the roof edge when used to reach a roof?

Accepted Answer

3 feet

Answer

OSHA guidance says the ladder should extend at least 3 feet above the landing surface so the climber has a handhold when getting on and off.

Question 3

A roof is steep, wet or fragile. What does the InterNACHI SoP allow?

Accepted Answer

The inspector may inspect it from the ground, ladder or other vantage points and report how it was inspected

Answer

Inspectors are not required to walk on a roof that could damage it or is unsafe. They may use other methods, such as binoculars, a ladder at the eaves or a drone, and must report the method used.

Question 4

When moving through an unfloored attic, where should an inspector step?

Accepted Answer

Only on the framing members (joists or truss chords)

Answer

The ceiling drywall between joists cannot hold a person's weight. Stepping only on the framing prevents falls through the ceiling and damage to the home.

Question 5

Before removing an electrical panel's dead-front cover, what should an inspector do?

Accepted Answer

Check for hazards such as signs of arcing or heat, and wear appropriate PPE

Answer

Inspectors should look for scorching, heat, water or other danger signs and use PPE such as insulated gloves and eye protection. The SoP lets them skip removing the cover if doing so is unsafe. They should not operate the main disconnect.

(InterNACHI) International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Practice Test

(InterNACHI) International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Practice Test

InterNACHI Inspector Safety & Safe Practices